Recent Publications:

The report from the Ministry of Justice of England and Wales which announced the taking forward of Lord Justice Briggs' recommendations in his interim and final reports. It is 'a vision statement' that commits the government to a major programme, costing just under £1bn in total, of technological reform in the courts, including an online small claims court. It asserts, complacently but without reference, that our courts are 'the envy of the world'. This might be true of our judiciary but - post recent cuts in legal aid and hikes in court and tribunal fees - seems unlikely as a general statement. The report gives no indication that the introduction of a small claims court will be piloted and no detail on what assistance will be provided for those who will struggle with online procedures.